Indeed is the world's largest job site, with over 300 million monthly visitors. But posting your resume isn't enough—you need to optimize it for Indeed's specific algorithm and features.
This guide covers strategies specifically for Indeed that differ from general resume advice.
How Indeed's Algorithm Works
Indeed uses two main systems:
1. Resume Search (For Recruiters)
Recruiters pay to search Indeed's resume database. They enter keywords, location, and filters to find candidates. Your goal: appear in these searches.
2. Job Matching (For You)
When you apply, Indeed's system matches your resume against the job description. Higher match scores can mean better visibility.
Making Your Resume Searchable
Indeed Resume vs. Uploaded Resume
You have two options on Indeed:
- Indeed Resume: Built using their form (more searchable)
- Uploaded Resume: Your PDF/Word file
Best strategy: Use both. Create an Indeed Resume for searchability, but upload your formatted resume for applications.
Keywords Are Everything
Indeed's search is keyword-based. Recruiters search exactly what they need:
Common searches:
- "project manager PMP Chicago"
- "registered nurse ICU"
- "software engineer Python AWS"
Your resume needs to contain these exact phrases.
How to Find the Right Keywords
- Search Indeed for jobs you want
- Note recurring terms across 10+ job descriptions
- Include these terms in your resume
- Use variations (e.g., "PM" and "Project Manager")
Job Title Optimization
Your current job title heavily influences search results:
Problem: Your company uses unique titles like "Customer Success Ninja"
Solution: Use industry-standard equivalents: "Customer Success Manager"
You can add context: "Customer Success Manager (internally titled 'Customer Success Ninja')"
Indeed Resume Best Practices
Headline
Your headline appears in search results. Make it keyword-rich:
❌ "Looking for new opportunities"
✅ "Senior Software Engineer | Python, AWS, Machine Learning | 8 Years Experience"
Work Experience
Indeed's format structures your experience. Optimize each section:
Job Title: Use searchable, standard titles
Company Description: Brief company context helps recruiters understand your background
Achievements: Start bullets with action verbs, include metrics
Skills Section
Indeed has a dedicated skills section that's heavily weighted in search:
- Add all relevant skills (up to their limit)
- Include both hard and soft skills
- Use the exact terminology from job postings
- Update regularly as you gain new skills
Certifications and Licenses
These are separately searchable on Indeed:
- Add all relevant certifications
- Include certification numbers if applicable
- Note expiration dates
Optimizing for Indeed Easy Apply
Indeed Easy Apply lets candidates apply with one click. To stand out:
Complete Your Profile
Incomplete profiles get fewer responses:
- All work history filled in
- Skills section complete
- Education details added
- Contact information current
Answer Screening Questions Thoughtfully
Many Easy Apply jobs include screening questions:
- Read carefully—these often filter candidates
- Provide specific, concise answers
- Don't leave optional questions blank
Resume Attachment
Even with Easy Apply, your uploaded resume matters:
- Attach a well-formatted PDF
- Ensure it matches your Indeed profile
- Tailor it to each application when possible
Indeed-Specific Features to Use
Assessments
Indeed offers skills assessments that badge your profile:
High-value assessments:
- Work style assessments
- Software skills (Excel, Word)
- Programming languages
- Industry-specific tests
Badges make your profile stand out in search results.
Salary Preferences
Setting realistic salary expectations helps matching:
- Research market rates on Indeed Salary
- Set a range you'd genuinely accept
- Update as your experience grows
Work Authorization
Complete this section accurately:
- Saves time for you and recruiters
- Affects which jobs you see
- Required for some applications
Local vs. Remote Optimization
Indeed has different search behaviors for local and remote jobs:
For Local Jobs
- Set your location accurately
- Indicate willingness to commute
- Consider setting multiple locations if you're flexible
For Remote Jobs
- Check the "Remote" option in preferences
- Include "remote" keywords in your resume
- Mention remote work experience explicitly
What to Avoid on Indeed
Don't Keyword Stuff
Indeed's algorithm detects unnatural keyword cramming:
❌ "Project Manager project management projects managing project planning project coordination"
✅ Natural integration of project management experience with varied language
Don't Use Generic Objectives
Indeed shows your headline, not objectives. Make every word count.
Don't Neglect Updates
Indeed factors in profile freshness:
- Update your resume every few weeks
- Add new skills as you learn them
- Refresh your headline periodically
Don't Apply to Everything
Indeed tracks application patterns. Mass-applying to unrelated jobs may affect your visibility.
Privacy Settings
Indeed has privacy options to consider:
Public Resume
Pros: Maximum visibility to recruiters Cons: Current employer might see it
Private Resume
Pros: Only visible when you apply Cons: Recruiters can't find you proactively
Block Companies
Indeed lets you hide your resume from specific employers—useful if you're employed and don't want your company to see you're searching.
Indeed Application Tracking
Use Indeed's tools to manage your search:
My Jobs
Track applications, saves, and interviews in one place.
Application Status
Some employers update status through Indeed—check regularly.
Messages
Respond quickly to Indeed messages; response time may factor into rankings.
Key Takeaways
- Create both an Indeed Resume and upload a formatted version
- Optimize for recruiter keyword searches
- Complete every section of your Indeed profile
- Take skills assessments for profile badges
- Keep your profile fresh with regular updates
- Use privacy settings strategically
- Respond quickly to messages and track applications
Indeed is a numbers game, but smart optimization beats mass applications. Focus on appearing in the right searches, and let recruiters come to you.
